Community Based Research Process

In 2010, UM-Flint was awarded the prestigious Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement, and has gained national recognition as a highly engaged campus. According to the Carnegie Foundation, community-engaged campuses demonstrate a commitment to “the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge and resources in a context of partnership and reciprocity.”

University Outreach works with faculty and students to engage with many community-based organizations each year. The project team is made up of faculty, students and community members. The team works to identify the needs, struggles, and common interests of the partners to best access collective resources. Through this process, community needs are met and students gain valuable experience and insight.

When the project involves human subjects the IRB has a role in oversight to ensure ethical practices are used, federal regulations are followed and subjects are protected. This model of Community-Based Research shows the interconnection of Community Partners, Academic Partners and the IRB. More info on University Outreach is available on their website.

The content is tailored for front-line research workers and their supervisors, and it presents issues and scenarios in four sections: (1) The Research Protocol, (2) Recruiting Participants, (3) Confidentiality, and (4) Professionalism.